July is peak tourist season in San Francisco and also one of its foggiest months. The Fourth of July ends with fireworks over the bay, and the free Stern Grove concerts carry on every Sunday. Bring a warm layer even on sunny days, because the fog can roll in within an hour.
In this guide
This page is part of our San Francisco events calendar.
July 2027 at a glance
- Jul 4 Independence Day, a Sunday; Free First Sunday at the Asian Art Museum
- Jul 4 Fireworks over the bay, usually near Fisherman’s Wharf around 9:30pm
- Jul 5 Federal holiday observed
- Jul 6 Free First Tuesday at the de Young and Legion of Honor
- Sundays Free Stern Grove Festival concerts
- Weather Average high 66°F, low 54°F, foggy mornings and evenings
Fourth of July fireworks
San Francisco’s Fourth of July fireworks are usually launched from barges near Fisherman’s Wharf at around 9:30pm. In 2026, for the country’s 250th birthday, they were also launched from the Golden Gate Bridge. Fog sometimes hides part of the show, so come prepared for a cool night. Good viewing areas include Aquatic Park, the Marina Green, Crissy Field and the hills of Telegraph and Russian Hill. Muni and walking beat driving, since streets near the waterfront close. The 2027 plans had not been announced when we published this.
Stern Grove Festival
The Stern Grove Festival holds free Sunday afternoon concerts through the summer in the Sunset District. Tickets are free through the festival’s lottery. The grove is often foggy and cool, so bring layers and a blanket.
Summer fog
July mornings and evenings are often gray and windy, especially near the Golden Gate and Ocean Beach. The Mission, SoMa and the East Bay are usually sunnier. Our weather by month guide and packing list explain how to plan for it.
Busy season tips
- Book Alcatraz tickets several weeks ahead. See the Alcatraz tour guide.
- Ride cable cars early in the morning to avoid the longest lines. See the cable car guide.
- Walk the Golden Gate Bridge early before the wind picks up. See the Golden Gate Bridge guide.
Coming up in August
Outside Lands is in Golden Gate Park on August 6 to 8, 2027, and the Nihonmachi Street Fair is in Japantown on August 7 and 8. See San Francisco events in August.
Official resources: Stern Grove Festival, San Francisco Travel.
Frequently asked questions
Where are the Fourth of July fireworks in San Francisco?
They are usually launched from barges near Fisherman’s Wharf around 9:30pm. Check official announcements for 2027.
Is July a good time to visit San Francisco?
It is popular and busy, with long days. It is also cool and foggy, so pack a jacket.
Are Stern Grove concerts on every weekend?
The festival holds its concerts on Sundays through the summer.
Photo credits
Featured image: Cgbriggs19 / Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 4.0; Stern Grove Festival: CarmenEsparzaAmoux / Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 4.0.